No-burn days and the lack of snow doesn't stop Phoenix residents from embracing the holiday season. We deck out our yards, hang wreaths and sip eggnog just like our snowbird brethren up North.

In fact, we experience our own form of heat-induced cabin fever and use any excuse to get outside and savor the sites and sounds this time of year.

Beginning this week, here are five iconic Phoenix-area holiday traditions to put on your list and to put you in the holiday spirit.

APS Electric Light Parade

When: 7 p.m. Dec. 2.

Where: The 2-mile parade route begins at Montebello, just south of Bethany Home Road, and goes south on Central. The parade heads east on Camelback Road, then south on 7th Street to end at Indian School Road.

The Electric Light Parade is a three-decade tradition.

Anyone, from marching bands to community groups, can enter the parade, with one caveat: entries must have holiday lights.

Spectators usually line the streets early to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus and floats, glimmering with thousands of lights.

Tip: Parking is on city streets near the route, but consider light rail. The parade runs near the light rail stop at Central Avenue, just south of Camelback Road.

CitySkate Holiday Ice Rink

During City Skate, an ice skating rink and large decorated tree are set up in the middle of downtown Phoenix.(Photo: City Skate)

When: Nov. 25-Jan. 7.

Where: 1 E. Washington St.

The outdoor ice rink, which began eight years ago, has become a holiday favorite.

The roughly 7,000 square-foot rink opens with festivities on Nov. 25. Santa Claus is expected to arrive at 3 p.m. and the tree-lighting is at 6 p.m. The celebration includes performances by The Phoenix Symphony, Arizona Opera, Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet, Herberger Theater Center and All Puppet Players. The Phoenix Art Museum will open a pop-up shop with installations and performances.

Skating continues through mid-January and Santa will make appearances on weekends. Check the calendar for special events, including City Lights Movie Nights on Dec. 8 with a double feature: "Home Alone" and "Elf."

Las Noches de Las Luminarias

The Desert Botanical Garden is amazing in warm weather, but breathtaking during the holidays as the garden glows with more than 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags. The monthlong event is a 39-year Phoenix tradition.

There may not be snow, but on a cool and dark desert night, stroll past candlelit cactus, drink warm cider and listen to festive music to get into the holiday spirit. Performances include mariachis, handbell ensembles, Native American flute, Spanish guitar and jazz.

Gertrude’s, an onsite restaurant, will be open nightly, although reservations are suggested. The Patio Café and Dorrance Hall Buffet also will be available.

Tip: Tickets can sell out so order early.

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ZooLights

When: 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Nov. 22-Jan. 14.

Where: 455 N. Galvin Parkway.

It just wouldn't be the holidays in the Valley without a visit to this iconic jungle winter wonderland aglow with millions of lights shaped like bears, flamingos, monkeys and hundreds of other animals and sparkling displays. A canopy of lights welcomes guests at the zoo’s main entrance bridge and ticket windows, while hundreds of trees and cacti have been meticulously wrapped throughout the property setting the stage for a magical experience.

There's snowfall each night at 7, musical performances and visits from Santa Claus throughout the season.